‘68.6% undergraduate students in Ludhiana addicted to smartphone’
In an interview with Manav Mander, Dr Pallavi Abhilasha, Associate Professor, Christian Medical College, discusses health implications of smartphone addiction
Smartphone addiction has become a pervasive issue, especially among the younger population and is increasingly being recognised as a psychiatric disorder. It is a behavioural disorder characterised by the excessive or compulsive use of smartphones, which impairs daily functioning, interpersonal relationships and mental health.
The addiction primarily affects the brain’s reward system, particularly the dopaminergic pathways, where constant notifications, likes and messages trigger dopamine release, reinforcing compulsive behaviour.
Dr Abhilasha explains, “This addiction is not just a habit; it’s a neurobiological issue. The brain gets accustomed to the dopamine rush provided by notifications and messages, leading to compulsive use.”
A study conducted by Christian Medical College found that approximately 68.6% of undergraduate students in Ludhiana are addicted to their smartphones. This excessive use has been linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, stress and loneliness among those affected.
The issue is not limited to undergraduates alone. Research focusing on postgraduate students at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana indicates a significant prevalence of smartphone addiction within this demographic.
Beyond mental health, smartphone addiction is taking a toll on physical health as well. A study conducted in Ludhiana’s colleges revealed that 37.8% of smartphone users experienced mild neck disability due to text neck syndrome. Additionally, 46.25% of participants reported poor sleep quality, highlighting the serious physical consequences of prolonged smartphone use.
Dr Abhilasha emphasises the need for targeted interventions, saying, “The growing prevalence of smartphone addiction in Ludhiana’s student population calls for immediate attention. Not only does it impact mental health, but it also leads to physical ailments, which further complicate the issue.”
Smartphone addiction is affecting individuals and society in significant ways. Excessive screen time is associated with mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, poor sleep and a decreased attention span. Physically, it contributes to eye strain, neck pain and a sedentary lifestyle. Socially, it weakens real-life connections, decreases face-to-face interactions and disrupts family bonding. Academically and professionally, constant distractions lead to reduced productivity and performance. In extreme cases, behaviours like texting while driving pose serious safety risks.
Addressing smartphone addiction requires a combination of awareness, self-regulation and supportive interventions. Dr Abhilasha notes that smartphones have become integral to daily life, providing convenience in communication, work, entertainment and education. However, overuse has led to concerns about mental health, attention, sleep and social connections.
“While smartphones provide great benefits, their overuse is contributing to a decline in mental well-being and social health. The boundary between healthy use and compulsive behaviour is often blurred, especially among youth,” Dr Abhilasha explains.
Combatting smartphone addiction requires strategies such as setting screen time limits, turning off non-essential notifications and designating “phone-free” times or zones, such as during meals or before bed. Engaging in offline activities like reading, exercising or pursuing hobbies can offer healthier alternatives. Parental control and supervision for children and adolescents are also crucial in curbing excessive phone use.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices are effective tools in improving impulse control and self-awareness. In severe cases, digital detox programs and counselling may be necessary. Dr Abhilasha also advocates for open discussions about technology use in families and schools to foster balanced smartphone habits.
In conclusion, smartphone addiction, if left unchecked, can have a profound impact on personal well-being, relationships, productivity and the emotional and social health of society. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, digital discipline, mental health support and mindful technology use.
Punjab